By Marta Elena Casanova
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April 30, 2025 marks a crucial date for Italian football: Lega Pro has officially announced the introduction of a salary cap in Serie C starting from the 2025/2026 season. This decision represents a fundamental step towards a more sustainable and responsible football model.
Why the salary cap is necessary
Over the past twenty years, the economic sustainability of Serie C has remained an unresolved issue. According to Lega Pro president Matteo Marani, “the problem of sustainability in Italian football has been known for at least twenty years.” In 2023, Lega Pro’s total wage bill reached nearly €163 million, an increase of €35 million compared to the previous season. This financial imbalance has led many clubs to operate at a loss, putting the stability of the entire system at risk.
What the salary cap entails
The salary cap introduced by Lega Pro sets a maximum limit on the wages of players and technical staff. The measure aims to control costs and ensure that clubs operate within financially sustainable limits. Matteo Marani emphasized the importance of this measure, stating that “costs must be controlled, otherwise football will implode.”
The role of youth in the new model
Alongside the salary cap, Lega Pro is promoting the inclusion of young talents in the league. Marani pointed out that “young players represent the future, the movement, and the almost desperate need our system has to put talent back at the center.” Integrating young players not only enriches the league but also supports more economical resource management.
Expected impacts
The introduction of the salary cap and the promotion of youth are decisive steps toward a fairer and more sustainable football system. These measures are expected to reduce the gap between clubs, promote responsible financial management, and foster the development of local talent. Moreover, adopting successful European models presents an opportunity to modernize the system and make it more competitive.
With the implementation of the salary cap, Serie C is set to write a new chapter in the history of Italian football, focusing on sustainability, fairness, and youth development.
By Marta Elena Casanova
